OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this article is to provide paediatric rehabilitation providers with a review of self-report physical function outcome measures that have been used for children with spinal cord injury (SCI). REVIEW PROCESS: A literature review was conducted to identify self-report physical function measures for children with SCI. Further searching of reference lists and textbooks was also completed. OUTCOMES: Eight measures were identified, but limitations exist in these current tools. There are few reports of psychometrics, in addition to a lack of accommodation for wheelchair use, limited item content for supported ambulation and minimal variation in content for a wide age-range. CONCLUSION: A comprehensive yet practical self-report measure applicable for all ages with items suitable for a child with a complete or incomplete injury is needed. The best means to achieve effective and efficient outcome monitoring may be computerized adaptive testing.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this article is to provide paediatric rehabilitation providers with a review of self-report physical function outcome measures that have been used for children with spinal cord injury (SCI). REVIEW PROCESS: A literature review was conducted to identify self-report physical function measures for children with SCI. Further searching of reference lists and textbooks was also completed. OUTCOMES: Eight measures were identified, but limitations exist in these current tools. There are few reports of psychometrics, in addition to a lack of accommodation for wheelchair use, limited item content for supported ambulation and minimal variation in content for a wide age-range. CONCLUSION: A comprehensive yet practical self-report measure applicable for all ages with items suitable for a child with a complete or incomplete injury is needed. The best means to achieve effective and efficient outcome monitoring may be computerized adaptive testing.